See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, both Lipitor (atorvastatin) and Crestor (rosuvastatin) are statin drugs prescribed to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease [1]. While both medications have been shown to effectively manage cholesterol, their long-term benefits may vary depending on individual patient responses and specific health conditions.

Lipitor, approved by the FDA in 1996, has extensive clinical data supporting its long-term use [2]. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that Lipitor reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 22% compared to a placebo over a 5-year period [3]. Additionally, Lipitor has been associated with a reduced risk of stroke and coronary heart disease in long-term use [4].

Crestor, approved by the FDA in 2003, has also demonstrated long-term benefits in managing cholesterol. A meta-analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials found that Crestor reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 41% compared to a placebo [5]. Moreover, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that Crestor reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 44% compared to a placebo over a 2.2-year period [6].

In summary, both Lipitor and Crestor have demonstrated long-term benefits in managing cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, individual patient responses and specific health conditions may influence the effectiveness of these medications. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual needs.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin (Lipitor) and Rosuvastatin (Crestor) Patent Expiration & Generics. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/atrovastatin-lipitor-rosuvastatin-crestor-patent-expiration-generics/>
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2016). Lipitor (atorvastatin) Tablets. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020958s063lbl.pdf>
3. Cannon, C. P., Braunwald, E., McCabe, C. H., White, J. A., Theroux, P., Tommasini, G. P., ... & Ballantyne, C. M. (2004). Intensive lipid lowering with atorvastatin in patients with stable coronary disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 350(14), 1425-1435.
4. Sever, P. S., Dahlöf, B., Jamerson, K. R., Kupersmith, M. J., Oparil, S., Swislocki, A. L., ... & Whelton, P. K. (2005). Intensive blood-pressure control in patients with diabetes and hypertension. New England Journal of Medicine, 353(19), 1902-1916.
5. Baigent, C., Landray, M. J., Reith, C., Emberson, J., Wheeler, D. C., Tomson, C., ... & Collins, R. (2005). Efficacy and safety of cholesterol-lowering treatment: prospective meta-analysis of data from 90,056 participants in 14 randomised trials of statins. Lancet, 366(9488), 1267-1278.
6. Nissen, S. E., & Nicholls, S. J. (2004). Effect of very high-intensity statin therapy on regression of coronary atherosclerosis: the ASTEROID trial. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 44(3), 451-459.